The Free State Public Transportation System: A Comparison Between Buses and Taxi Services and Adaptation of ICT Solutions

Abstract

This paper explores Information Communication Technologies (ICT) for consideration in the public transportation system in the Free State and how the two main types of public transportation; buses and taxis, are likely to adapt to these technologies. Taxis and buses operation and management of operations are completely different; their differences are likely to affect how each adapts to these technologies. Adaptation to the integrated public transportation system by the bus and taxi users, drivers, and operators will be key to successful ICT integration. Focusing on the benefits that ICT solutions have brought in some regions in the world should not overshadow consideration for possible slow adaptation, lack of acceptance or resistance by stakeholders when applied in a different environment and a different public transportation system. This paper considers the different operational scenarios, government involvement and political will, public – driver – operator participation and willingness and ICT awareness. Whether the technologies and applications will be suitable and adaptable to the existing system and their perceived influence on adaptation to an ICT integrated public transportation system from implementation until there are fully embedded into the system are also considered. Feasibility of some ICT solutions, to the decision makers and operators, considering financial, technical and management feasibility and degree of integration will influence the adaptation process.